In celebration of International Children’s Book Day, I am thrilled to visit Victoria magazine’s blog to share an inspiring collection of children’s classics. These stories are laced with whimsy, heartfelt sentiments, and life lessons that continue to enrich readers’ lives all around the world. Pull any of these titles from the shelf, and you’ll be reacquainted with the enchanting spirit of childhood.
Anne of Green Gables by L.M. Montgomery
Notable quotation: “Kindred spirits are not so scarce as I used to think. It’s splendid to find out there are so many of them in the world.”
Discover life’s beauty through Anne Shirley’s eyes in this timeless series. A romantic soul with an extraordinary imagination, Anne will whisk you away through The White Way of Delight to Green Gables, where adventure awaits!
The Secret Garden by Frances Hodgson Burnett
Notable quotation: “And the secret garden bloomed and bloomed and every morning revealed new miracles.”
When the disagreeable Mary Lennox is sent to live with her uncle in the English Moors, she comes upon a withered garden that’s been hidden away for many years. Come along with Mary and her friends as they bring The Secret Garden back to life with the help of a little magic.
A Little Princess by Frances Hodgson Burnett
Notable Quotation: “Somehow, something always happens just before things get to the very worst. It is as if Magic did it. If I could only just remember that always. The worse thing never quite comes.”
In keeping with a characteristic theme of Frances Hodgson Burnett’s writing, A Little Princess celebrates the magic to be found in everyday life and the sense of hope it brings even amidst our darkest moments.
Heidi by Johanna Spyri
Notable Quotation: “The happiest of all things is when an old friend comes and greets us as in former times; the heart is comforted with the assurance that some day everything that we have loved will be given back.”
At the tender age of five, Heidi has a unique ability to teach us valuable life lessons on love and friendship. Readers can’t help but be taken by her bright spirit and natural ability to find the silver lining in every circumstance.
Winnie the Pooh by A. A. Milne
Notable Quotation: “You’re braver than you believe, stronger than you seem and smarter than you think.”
Winnie and friends Piglet, Tigger, Eeyore, and Christopher Robin take readers on charming adventures through the Hundred Acre Wood. This darling story is sprinkled with thoughtful sentiments on bravery, empathy, and imagination.
Little Women by Louisa May Alcott
Notable Quotation: “I am not afraid of storms, for I am learning how to sail my ship.”
This immensely acclaimed novel tells the tales of our beloved March sisters, Meg, Jo, Beth, and Amy, and their experiences from childhood to womanhood.
Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland by Lewis Carroll
Notable Quotation: “Alice had begun to think that very few things indeed were really impossible.”
Embark on a whimsical journey alongside little Alice in this famous story written by Lewis Carroll. Amongst its pages you’ll meet eccentric characters, including The Mad Hatter, The Queen of Hearts, a talking rabbit, and more.
Charlotte’s Web by E. B. White
Notable Quotation: “ ‘Why did you do all this for me?’ he asked. ‘I don’t deserve it. I’ve never done anything for you.’ ‘You have been my friend,’ replied Charlotte. ‘That in itself is a tremendous thing.’ ”
Speaking of talking animals, Charlotte’s Web follows the beautiful friendship between a pig named Wilbur and a spider named Charlotte who attempts to save his life. You may also recall E. B. White’s children’s novel, Stuart Little.
The Wonderful Wizard of Oz by L. Frank Baum
Notable Quotation: “You’ve always had the power my dear, you just had to learn it for yourself.”
When Dorothy finds herself far from home, she embarks on a journey to find her way back and creates treasured friendships with astonishing characters along the way.
Peter Pan by J.M. Barrie
Notable Quotation: “The moment you doubt whether you can fly, you cease for ever to be able to do it.”
Peter Pan tells the story of a mischievous little boy who refuses to grow up. Clinging onto the magic and innocence of childhood, he sets out on enchanting adventures throughout the island of Neverland.
Text and Photography Hayley Solano
Hayley Solano is an old soul with a penchant for storytelling. She is the founder of The Enchanted Book Club, a kindred community dedicated to celebrating the magic of literature. Learn more at enchantedbookclub.com, and follow her on Instagram at @hayleysolano.
Now there is a bend in it. I don’t know what lies around the bend, but I’m going to believe that the best does. It has a fascination of its own, that bend, Marilla. I wonder how the road beyond it goes—what there is of green glory and soft, checkered light and shadows—what new landscapes—what new beauties—what curves and hills and valleys further on.”
／Anne of greengables
Great list of books. I like the quotes too.